Brews & Eats
My first time at TOAD... What an experience!

Romeo:

Last month TOAD hosted an intimate show for its investors. Headlining the event was Magic Numbers lead singer, Romeo.

With a voice equivalent to caramel, it echoed softly through TOAD’s barn as the audience listened seemingly captivated in silence - myself included.

Afterwards I questioned Romeo on his whereabouts since the band’s last album in 2014. He said he’s been busy producing, but The Magic Numbers have in fact finished their fifth album which they will be touring this year.

This led me to ask how this London-based dream boat from Trinidad ended up at TOAD. As it turns out, he and TOAD’s CEO Tom have been friends for roughly 16 years. They met in London when Tom came across The Magic Numbers during his earlier career as a music producer.

Romeo said: “We just kept tight! He’s an inspiration, and very charming. We were kind of dreamers back then, and still are, but now look at us!”

Tom:

Tom, TOAD’s Chairman and CEO, is hands down the most charismatic and eccentric businessman I have ever encountered. Needless to say my time at TOAD didn’t feel like work in the slightest.

From the off it was apparent how much energy and passion he’s put into the distillery, such as the heritage grain (which are pre-1940s) they use which Tom explained produces a glorious caramelly sweetness.

I can vouch that he is not lying. I had a sample of TOAD’s gin, and it was quite simply a juniper dream. “Oooooh” I believe was my instant reaction.

It’s of no surprise that Tom’s quite the eco warrier and has created Oxford’s first distillery which is also extremely sustainable - using absolutely no chemicals or fertilizers - which results in a marvellously organic production of booze. TOAD is full of creativity and passion (this makes sense with Tom at the helm) which is also reflected by his wonderful colleagues each with their own area of expertise.

TOAD: The Oxford Artisan Distillery

Having only opened last July, TOAD has got off to a flying start. But it’s not really that surprising. These guys make their own stills, manually row the malt (Tom explains how this part looks like they’re making a huge bowl of alcoholic porridge), and bring so much personality and fun to distilling.

In recent news TOAD announced the Russian Embassy (yeah, those guys) have selected TOAD’s Rye Vodka to kick off the 2018 World Cup! I am extremely anti-vodka, but if it’s good enough for the Russians then that’s got to count for something. If you’re into splendid booze and tons of fun, I insist you go and check TOAD out (and for goodness sake do not drive). For further information about TOAD, visit www.spiritoftoad.com

  • My first time at TOAD... What an experience!
  • My first time at TOAD... What an experience!
  • My first time at TOAD... What an experience!
  • My first time at TOAD... What an experience!